The Textile Centre of Excellence is pleased to mark the launch of The Weavers Trade, a richly illustrated publication celebrating the 900th anniversary of the Worshipful Company of Weavers.
This milestone book offers a compelling insight into the enduring legacy and evolving future of weaving in Britain, capturing the creativity, skill and innovation that continue to define the sector today.
Our Managing Director, Shahban Aziz, is attending the launch event, representing the Textile Centre of Excellence at a significant moment for the industry. The occasion brings together figures from across education, manufacturing, design and heritage to recognise the importance of weaving both historically and in its modern, global context.
The Weavers Trade takes readers on a journey through a vibrant and diverse industry. From handloom weavers producing unique, individual works of art to large-scale industrial mills supplying cloth to leading international design brands, the book highlights the breadth of talent and capability within the sector.
It also explores the role of education and research, visiting art schools and universities where the next generation of textile professionals are developing their skills and pushing creative boundaries.
Alongside traditional techniques such as tweed, tartan, cashmere and silk production, the publication showcases the development of advanced technical textiles. These high-performance fabrics are now essential across aerospace, automotive, medical and engineering applications, demonstrating how deeply integrated weaving is within modern life.
Sustainability is another key theme running throughout the book, with attention given to eco-friendly, vegan and responsibly produced fabrics. This reflects a wider industry shift towards more conscious production methods and innovative material development.
At its heart, The Weavers Trade is a celebration of continuity and change. It honours centuries of craftsmanship while recognising the forward-thinking approaches shaping the future of textiles.
For the Textile Centre of Excellence, this aligns closely with our ongoing commitment to supporting skills development, industry collaboration and education pathways that strengthen the textile sector. The continued evolution of weaving demonstrates the importance of investing in knowledge, innovation and opportunity across the industry.
We are proud to see this landmark publication shine a light on a sector that remains both deeply rooted in heritage and firmly focused on the future.
